AgriSA Welcomes New Agriculture Minister Emphasizes Collaboration for Sectoral Growth

AgriSA, through its facilitated body AgriCulture South Africa, protects and promotes the interests of the farming community in South Africa.

AgriSA has expressed its anticipation for a collaborative and productive relationship with the newly appointed Agriculture Minister, John Steenhuisen, to advance South Africa's agricultural sector. The organization also congratulated Mzwanele Nyhontso on his appointment as Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development.

“These appointments come at a critical juncture, and we are confident that under these Ministers’ leadership, the agricultural sector will thrive and continue to be a cornerstone of the national economy,” AgriSA CEO Johann Kotzé stated on Monday.

Commitment to Support the Government of National Unity

Kotzé highlighted AgriSA's commitment to supporting the new government of national unity (GNU) by engaging with all stakeholders to foster a cohesive and collaborative approach to addressing sector challenges.

AgriSA's focus will be on three critical areas vital to the nation's well-being and prosperity:

Ensuring Food Security:

Objective: Enhance agricultural productivity, sustainability, and profitability.

Initiatives: Support policies to improve food security and promote access to safe, affordable, and nutritious food.

Economic Contribution:

Objective: Enhance the competitiveness of South African agriculture globally.

Initiatives: Increase exports, open new markets, and contribute to rural community development, poverty reduction, and unemployment alleviation.

Sustainable Agriculture:

Objective: Protect and enhance natural resources.

Initiatives: Promote responsible stewardship of natural resources to ensure long-term viability and productivity of the agricultural sector.

Gratitude to Outgoing Minister Thoko Didiza

Kotzé also expressed gratitude to the outgoing Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, for her support and understanding of the agricultural sector. Under her guidance, there were significant advancements and strengthened collaboration between the government and the agricultural community.

“Her efforts in maintaining strong relationships with organized agriculture have been invaluable. We wish her all the best in her position as Speaker of the National Assembly and thank her for her dedicated service and the positive impact she has made,” Kotzé added.

AgriSA's Role and Areas of Focus

AgriSA, through its facilitated body AgriCulture South Africa, protects and promotes the interests of the farming community in South Africa. The organization explores various agricultural policies, climate, water management, land reform, food security, labor issues, rural safety, and economics, among others.

AgriSA's dedication to working with the new ministers and the government underscores its commitment to enhancing the agricultural sector's role in ensuring food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability for the nation.